Although bitcoin investments are not prohibited, Somalia has shut down the cryptocurrency-friendly communications software Telegram and the gambling website 1XBet.
The Federal Republic of Somalia has started a digital reformation, using its regulatory power to halt sites that are thought to be detrimental to the country’s social fabric. The popular social media app TikTok, the online gambling website 1XBet, and the cryptocurrency-friendly messaging service Telegram have all been outlawed by the Somali government.
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Ministerial Directive Sets the Tone
The Ministry of Communications and Technology (MOCT) in Somalia formally disclosed this risky choice on August 20th, highlighting the goal of the administration to protect the nation’s traditional norms. A high-level discussion on telecommunications and internet security in social media was presided over by MOCT Minister Jama Hassan Khalif. Minister Khalif voiced concern at this discussion about the telecom and internet industry’s transformative impact on Somali lifestyles, which frequently encourages bad habits.
In expressing the government’s viewpoint, Minister Khalif said, “The government of Somalia is working to preserve the culture of Somali society.” He emphasized how modern technologies have significantly affected young people, with some unfavorable results. The news has sparked a global debate regarding these networks’ possible effects on Somali kids.
Promoting Decency and Curbing Misinformation
This choice was made in part because of Somalia’s dedication to preventing the dissemination of offensive material and terrorist propaganda. Due to worries that terror groups and other parties were using these platforms to spread offensive content and false information, the minister ordered the closure of Telegram, TikTok, and 1XBet.
The Ministry of Telecommunications and Technology announces the ban of #TikTok, #Telegram and online betting platform of 1Xbet, a move to counter and prevent indecent activities & contents, and extremism propaganda.#Somaliapic.twitter.com/dphcpuH18a
— SNTV News (@sntvnews1) August 20, 2023
The minister has ordered these platforms to stop operating by August 24th and has made it clear that failure to comply will result in harsh legal consequences. Although the decision’s immediate effects on the adoption of cryptocurrencies are yet unclear, it highlights the government’s proactive approach to reshaping its digital environment.
Unveiling the Ripple Effect
While it remains uncertain how the ban on Telegram and other platforms will influence Somalia’s cryptocurrency adoption, this step echoes the broader global concern surrounding the potential misuse of digital tools for illicit purposes, including terrorism financing. Although cryptocurrency investments remain legal in Somalia, the association of digital assets with terrorism financing risks continues to be a topic of discussion across many jurisdictions.
Related: Over 30% TikTok videos on crypto investments are misleading
The decision to ban these platforms also reflects the government’s duty to guide the evolution of technology in a manner that aligns with societal values and norms. As Somalia makes its stance clear on the usage of these platforms, the world watches to see how the ban will shape both digital interactions and the nation’s cultural identity.